Force of Nature: Rethinking Evolution to Solve Modern Problems

​What if natural selection isn’t just something we learned in biology class, but a powerful framework for solving today’s biggest challenges?

​Join us for a virtual book talk with Owen D. Jones, Professor of Law & Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University, as he discusses his new book Force of Nature: Understanding Evolution’s Deepest Logic – And Putting it to Use.

​Most of us learned the basics of natural selection in school—but deep misconceptions still persist, even among experts. In Force of Nature, Owen D. Jones shows how these misunderstandings limit our thinking, cost us opportunities, and even impact real-world outcomes, arguing that a deeper understanding of evolution is far more useful than we realize.

​Rather than just a historical process, Jones reframes natural selection as a powerful, underused tool for navigating today’s challenges. Drawing on examples from medicine, AI, economics, and law, he shows how evolutionary thinking can lead to better decisions, smarter systems, and more effective solutions—inviting us to see natural selection as a dynamic force we can harness to build smarter technologies, wiser policies, and a more resilient future.

​Professor Jones will discuss his new book with Francis Shen, Director of the Dana Foundation Career Network in Neuroscience & Society. In addition to the book, Professor Jones will share advice on pursuing careers and publishing at the intersection of science and law.

​Date: May 14, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM CT / 6:00 PM ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom link will be sent after registration)

​Book Website & Pre-order: www.owendjones.com
Follow: Instagram @owen.d.jones